What are the nerve cells of the retina primarily responsible for?

The nerve cells of the retina, primarily the ganglion cells, bipolar cells, and photoreceptors (rods and cones), are crucial for transmitting signals that enable the detection of color and brightness. Photoreceptor cells, particularly cones, are responsible for color vision, while rods play a significant role in low-light conditions by detecting brightness. Once the light is converted into electrical signals by these photoreceptors, the information is processed by bipolar cells and then transmitted to the brain via ganglion cells.

This process allows the visual system to interpret the environment, discerning various colors and light intensities, which is essential for vision. Thus, the primary responsibility of the nerve cells in the retina is accurately reflected in the correct choice.